Pharmacology Notes

Interferon beta has both antiviral and immunoregulatory activities. Its mechanism of action in multiple sclerosis is not clearly understood.

Adverse reactions are numerous, the most common being flu-like symptoms that decline with time, local injection site reaction and elevated hepatic transaminase concentrations. Numerous central nervous system adverse effects have also been reported, including weakness, increased stiffness, fatigue, nausea, anxiety, confusion and depression. Neutralising antibodies may also develop in a minority and in high titre are thought to decrease effectiveness

For more information about this drug class, see Interferons